Write a short note on features of New Public Administration.

New Public Administration (NPA) emerged in the 1960s and 1970s as a reaction against the perceived shortcomings of traditional public administration models. It sought to address issues of bureaucracy, inefficiency, and lack of responsiveness in governance. Here are the key features of New Public Administration:

1. Public Accountability: NPA emphasizes accountability and transparency in public administration. It advocates for clear lines of responsibility and mechanisms for holding public officials accountable to citizens and stakeholders.

2. Decentralization: NPA promotes decentralization of decision-making authority from central government agencies to local governments and community organizations. This shift aims to improve responsiveness to local needs and promote participatory governance.

3. Citizen Participation: NPA emphasizes the importance of involving citizens and community groups in decision-making processes. It seeks to empower citizens by providing opportunities for engagement, feedback, and collaboration in shaping public policies and programs.

4. Humanistic Values: NPA incorporates humanistic values into public administration, focusing on equity, social justice, and compassion in service delivery. It advocates for policies that prioritize the well-being and dignity of individuals and communities.

5. Management by Objectives: NPA emphasizes the importance of setting clear objectives and goals for public agencies. It promotes performance-based management practices that prioritize outcomes and results, rather than just processes.

6. Innovation and Flexibility: NPA encourages innovation and flexibility in public administration practices. It supports adaptive approaches that can respond effectively to changing societal needs, technological advancements, and economic conditions.

7. Interdisciplinary Approach: NPA promotes an interdisciplinary approach to addressing complex societal problems. It encourages collaboration across different fields of knowledge, including sociology, economics, political science, and psychology, to develop holistic solutions.

In conclusion, New Public Administration represents a shift towards more accountable, participatory, and citizen-centric approaches to governance. It continues to influence contemporary public administration theories and practices by emphasizing values of responsiveness, equity, and innovation in the delivery of public services.